The UK's Legal Aid Agency has become the latest victim of a significant cyberattack, leading to the shutdown of its online services. The breach, which was first detected on April 23, was found to be more extensive than initially thought by last Friday. Personal information, including criminal records, national insurance numbers, and payment details of both lawyers and clients, has been compromised.

Jane Harbottle, chief executive of Legal Aid, expressed her shock and regret over the incident, emphasizing the necessity of taking radical action to protect the service and its users. The decision to take the online service offline was made as a precautionary measure to prevent further unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Hackers have reportedly claimed access to 2.1 million pieces of data, a figure that the UK government has not yet confirmed. The breach has exposed a significant amount of personal data spanning 15 years, including addresses, birth dates, criminal history, employment status, and financial information of individuals seeking legal assistance.

The National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre are currently working with the Legal Aid Agency to investigate the breach and mitigate its effects. The agency plays a crucial role in providing legal assistance to those unable to afford it, making the breach a matter of significant concern for privacy and security advocates.

Police in Newry are investigating a violent altercation that occurred outside the Buttercrane Shopping Centre on Francis Street on Saturday evening. The incident, which involved a group of young males, took place at approximately 5:40 pm on October 18, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene.

Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the disturbance, including two 17-year-olds and one 16-year-old. Law enforcement officials confirmed the arrests were made on suspicion of multiple offenses, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two of the detained males, aged 16 and 17, have been released on bail pending further police inquiries, while the other 17-year-old was released unconditionally. The Police Service of Northern Ireland continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation that began at the shopping center and continued onto the adjacent street.

Authorities are particularly concerned about a male youth believed to have been assaulted during the incident who left the scene before officers arrived. Inspector Ritchie stated that police have concerns for the individual's wellbeing and are urging him to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage are asked to contact Ardmore police station quoting reference number 1120 of 18/10/25.